Overview
Yes — commissioners can limit the World Cup Bracket contest to just the Knockout Stage, skipping the Group Stage entirely. Here's how it works and when it might make sense for your group.
How It Works
When the Group Stage is toggled off, members skip the group ranking predictions and go straight to picking the knockout bracket. Members pick all 31 games in the bracket — from the Round of 32 through the Final — and earn points for each correct pick.
Because members are picking the actual teams that qualified for the bracket (not those they predicted), the knockout bracket only opens after the Group Stage is completed and the real bracket is set — regardless of whether your contest includes the Group Stage or not.
How to Set Up a Knockout Stage Only Contest
Navigate to Commissioner → Create a Contest and select World Cup Bracket.
In the setup flow, toggle the Group Stage off.
Configure your Knockout Stage point values by round.
Publish and invite your members.
Note: With the Group Stage off, the Group Stage columns on the leaderboard will remain hidden — only the Knockout Stage columns are displayed.
When Does a Knockout Stage Only Contest Make Sense?
Late starters — If your group isn't ready to launch until after the Group Stage begins, a Knockout Stage only format lets everyone still participate on a level playing field.
Simpler format — Some groups prefer a straightforward bracket pick without the group ranking predictions. This keeps things easy for casual participants.
Familiar format — It mirrors a standard tournament bracket, similar to March Madness, which many members will already understand.
Knockout Stage Default Point Values
Round of 32: 1 pt
Round of 16: 2 pts
Quarterfinals: 4 pts
Semifinals: 6 pts
Final: 8 pts
Commissioners can adjust these values when setting up the contest.